Tangi Ka’ara sponsors present certificates to talented Apii Avarua drummers

In recognition of their passion and skills, primary school drummers who competed in CITC Pump the Beats’ Emo’anga Tangi Ka’ara 2024 competition received certificates of appreciation from CITC, the annual competition event sponsor.

The Apii Avarua drummers “thrilled” to receive their certificates yesterday morning from CITC brand manager George George and the company’s marketing and advertising co-ordinator Esther Heather.

“We are delighted that Apii Avarua has made such a great contribution to our talented children through their teacher and mentor Steven Hiro, encouraging them to immerse themselves in our culture,” George George said.

Cleveland Ngavii, lead drummer for the Apii Avarua band, said his family encouraged him to take Tangi Ka’ara drum lessons for the first time last year.

“I love culture and some of my family members love culture, so I want to be like them,” Ngavii said.

“When we won, I was proud of our guys because they weren’t nervous and they were confident.

“I will not forget it. I want to continue and hope our children can do it. Thank you to our school and mentor Mr. Hiro.”

Tangi Ka’ara instructor Steven Hiro began playing drums in his native Manihiki Island.

But his drumming career came to a halt when he moved to Rarotonga 15 years ago.

He started playing drums again three years ago, and spent his first year helping out with Apii Avarua.

“It’s really fun, honestly,” Hiro said. “Each year each group has its own attitude and personality.”

“Some teams have different skills and skill levels, and every year their quality and characteristics change.”

The Te Apii Avarua Tangi Ka’ara 2024 team is: Mentor – Steven Hiro; Drummers – Cleveland Ngavii, Justice Siona, Ngametua Matangaro, Ngapoe Urirau, Luka Newbigging, Jayden Angene, Joshua Sherwin, Nyjah Atuatika, Akatauira Tapena, William Tou.